Community Volunteer Volunteer Roles
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About CARAS:
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in South West London, and helps them to play their full part in the community. Arriving as an asylum seeker in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. We exist to help people seeking asylum overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives.
We offer a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background, providing them the tools they need to build lives filled with value, meaning and purpose in the UK. Our activities for adults include currently include: ESOL classes; sports; women’s creative writing; women’s coffee morning, and casework.
About the CARAS Adult Team:
In the post-pandemic environment, CARAS is responding to the role of digital literacies in our programme delivery to learners of asylum-seeking and refugee background. In contrast to the UK essential Digital skills framework, we have built in language inclusion to create a participatory learning course for Essential Digital Literacies for learners who are new to reading and writing in English. The individuals joining CARAS are highly diverse, with different countries of origin, linguistic and educational backgrounds. We have observed over the last year that many CARAS community members have limited digital skills, particularly in regard to using computers. Community members have highlighted that computers are important for many individuals to achieve their educational and employment goals, whilst increasing confidence and independence. We have co-designed a digital skills program in partnership with CARAS community members to improve computer literacy and skills, focusing on basic computer literacy.
About the Role:
We are seeking two volunteers based in London to teach our lively computer classes in Tooting every Monday 9:00-11:00. Volunteers will lead the sessions with guidance from the CARAS ESOL Teacher and will work closely with our community members to build their skills and confidence using computers. The Digital Literacies course at CARAS is built around Pre-entry to Entry 2 levels in English. Volunteers will be supporting individuals with tasks such as: getting to know how to use a computer, using the internet, setting up an email address, and using Microsoft office. We intend to fold employability sessions, including CV writing and job searching, into these sessions.
Volunteer Tasks and responsibilities:
· Lead on the delivery of sessions with support from CARAS’s Essential Digital Skills Teacher.
· Assist with the logistical set up of the sessions, supporting CARAS staff where needed.
· Work collaboratively as a team and assisting to shape the project.
· Create class registers and records as required.
· To attend and contribute to volunteer pre- and de-briefs at each session.
· To act as a positive role model and set standards of behaviour when volunteering.
· Support people to develop their knowledge and skills and encourage and inspire participants to reach their full potential.
· To assist participants to both, recognise and celebrate their achievements.
· To challenge negative attitudes and behaviour in an appropriate manor.
· Advocate for the rights of asylum seekers, refugees and migrants with not for them.
· Adhering to CARAS Confidentiality policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant.
Requirements:
· To be non-judgemental, and able and willing to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
· To be female identifying.
· Have a good understanding of how to use a computer.
· To be reliable and punctual.
· Excellent presentation and communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English.
· Commitment to support people seeking asylum to take control of their asylum journey.
· Ability to volunteer every Friday for a minimum of three months.
· Current resident in the UK.
· Ability to work in Tooting SW17.
· To provide five years’ worth of addresses and be willing to undergo a DBS check.
· To attend CARAS General and Safeguarding Training sessions.
· To be 18 years or older.
Through volunteering with us you will:
· Meet new members of your local community
· Learn about different cultures
· Learn about issues relating to refugee and asylum seekers
· Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team
· Develop your skills and competencies
· Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding
To Apply:
To apply for this opportunity, download and complete the CARAS volunteer application form from the CARAS website using this volunteer role description to inform your answers.
Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with a member of the CARAS staff team. These meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP!
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About CARAS:
Community Action for Refugees and Asylum Seekers (CARAS) is a charity that supports refugees and asylum-seekers living in south-west London. We work primarily with people who are newly arrived in the UK, most of whom are living in temporary Home Office accommodation. Arriving as a refugee in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language barriers, accessing services, financial insecurity and ongoing uncertainty are extremely challenging and disempowering. CARAS is here to work collaboratively with community members to support them to build skills, connect meaningfully with their local community, and to build positive futures in the UK.
CARAS offers a range of individual and group support to improve the holistic wellbeing of people who have a forced displacement background. For adults this currently includes: ESOL, digital skills and employability sessions; social and recreational activities and casework. All programs are interlinked and work hand-in-hand with one another. For example, community members can practice their spoken English in Coffee Afternoon, and casework issues might be picked up and referred into the team during an ESOL class. We design and develop our programs through consultation and ongoing conversations with our community members. We aim to have a strong volunteer presence across all our programs, fostering connections between asylum seekers and other Londoners!
About CARAS’s Adult Programming and Coffee Afternoon:
CARAS has been providing support to adult refugee women since 2005, promoting skills and confidence development that helps women gain more power in their lives. In the aftermath of COVID, we have been able to expand our adult programmes, responding to the shifting demographics of those seeking asylum in the UK. We now run a range of mixed programmes for all genders, as well as some women-only spaces. Our coffee afternoon is a mixed group.
Our coffee afternoon has been running since May 2022 and is one of our most popular groups. It takes place at TARA Theatre in Earlsfield from 1-2.30PM every Friday. Its primary aim is to reduce isolation amongst those we work with by providing a safe, friendly and welcoming space for people to have fun, learn about themselves and each other, and build connections.
In 2023, we have been running creative sessions during Coffee Afternoon, facilitated by freelance creative practitioners in partnership with TARA Theatre. These range from dance to drama, poetry to puppetry. For sessions without a creative practitioner, we sometimes host workshops on important topics such as healthcare rights or have an open and informal space for games and a chat. There is always coffee and a selection of baked goods!
For more information on TARA Theatre, our partner and host, please visit their website.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
- To attend CARAS coffee afternoon’s, every Friday between 1-2.30PM in Earlsfield, South-west London. They take place at TARA Theatre, right opposite Earlsfield Station. Location here- https://maps.app.goo.gl/rXwJiKHRj93YFtLG9 (356 Garratt Ln, London SW18 4ES).
- If there is a week this is not possible, to tell CARAS staff as far in advance as you are able.
- To welcome and connect with community members attending, working to ensure everyone at the group feels included.
- To take part if there is a creative activity happening in that session, and help liaise with CARAS staff and the creative practitioner to ensure the activity runs smoothly.
- To encourage and inspire community members to feel confident and reach their full potential.
- To share conversation, and chat informally with our community members.
- To assist community members to both recognise and celebrate their achievements.
- To challenge negative attitudes and behaviour in an appropriate manor.
- To adhere to CARAS Confidentiality policy, Health & Safety policy, Equal Opportunities policy and all other policies as relevant.
Requirements:
- To have interest in working with refugees and asylum seekers.
- To be non-judgemental, and able and willing to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds, and differing levels of English.
- To be reliable and punctual.
- To be a current resident in the UK.
- To provide five years’ worth of addresses and be willing to undergo a UK DBS check.
- To attend CARAS General and Safeguarding Training, and any further training as necessary.
- To be 18 years or older.
Through volunteering with us you will:
- Meet new members of your local community
- Learn about different cultures and life experiences from across the world
- Learn about issues relating to refugee and asylum seekers
- Work as part of a friendly, welcoming team
- Develop your skills and competencies
- Be able to access relevant training, including safeguarding
To Apply:
Please fill in the volunteer application form and email it to us. Successful applicants will have an informal meeting with the Head of Adult Inclusion and Adult Program Coordinator these meetings will be on a rolling basis so apply ASAP!
Details for this role are in the description and not mentioned in the application form but please fill in your details in the Volunteer application form attached and send it back to us
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
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Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Lead the celebration of Afro-Hebrew culture and foster understanding across diverse communities. As the Community Engagement and Racial Harmony Programme Manager at Barawak, you will orchestrate impactful cultural events and collaborative art projects.
Introduction to the Community Engagement and Racial Harmony Programme at Barawak
Love creating a buzz? Are you passionate about shaping vibrant cultural narratives? Does the thought of curating groundbreaking events spark your creativity? The Community Engagement and Racial Harmony Programme at Barawak is where your enthusiasm can come to life. Anchored in our strategic mission to foster economic empowerment and racial harmony, this service line is the heart of our community's vibrancy, designed to both engage and exhilarate. It upholds our objective to establish the Afro-Hebrew community as a powerhouse of high-achieving, inspirational members who contribute significantly to our community.
In line with our vision, we're crafting a new lexicon of Afro-Hebrew cultural celebration — one that embraces the aspirations of our emerging future and resonates with the ambition of our youth. Through electrifying events and artistic collaborations, this programme will shine a light on the richness and diversity of our heritage. Our mission, firmly woven into the fabric of this service line, is to champion innovative ways of community connection that are both enlightening and empowering. We're on a journey to elevate the Afro-Hebrew narrative, positioning our community as a beacon of culture and a touchstone for tomorrow's successes.
The aim for this service line is community engagement with a difference; working to create excitement about and around the Afro Hebrew community; and helping to get across to the rest of the world that the Afro-Hebrew community produces high-quality members of society. This service line will create a new way of celebrating Afro Hebrew culture, one that is fit for aspirations of our future. The Community Engagement and Racial Harmony service line is dedicated to redefining the celebration of our heritage, making it relevant for the world of tomorrow and resonant with the aspirations of our youth. Our mission is to foster a new way of community interaction that is as enlightening as it is uplifting, positioning the Afro-Hebrew community as a source of inspiration and a foundation for future success.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Plan and execute the Community Engagement and Racial Harmony strategy and service line:
• Cultural Events and Dialogue: Lead the creation of a flagship calendar of events designed to elevate the cultural and social quality of the community. This includes organizing a successful annual cultural festival with a diverse range of activities that celebrate and raise awareness of Afro-Hebrew heritage.
• Art and Media Collaborations: Develop and implement a series of collaborative art and media projects that involve community members, fostering racial harmony and showcasing the community's creativity and stories.
2. Measure performance: Keep accurate count of thenumber of cultural events held annually; the number of attendees to cultural events; the community participation rate in art and media projects. Including social media and other statistics; and feedback and satisfaction rates from event attendees and project participants. Provide this data to the Governance Team and Trustees on request.
3. Collaboration with Verticals Teams:
• Partnership Development & Collaboration Team: Coordinate with this team to identify and establishalliances and partnerships with local, regional and global organisations, businesses, councils, and thegovernment to acquire Community Engagement and Racial Harmony resources, speakers or information.
• Fundraising & Financial Management Team: Collaborate with this team to conduct fundraising activities and financial planning for the Community Engagement and Racial Harmony service line. Identify diverse revenue streams, such as grants, donations, corporate sponsorships, fundraising events for the Community Engagement and Racial Harmony service.
• Volunteer Engagement Team: Work with this team to recruit, train and manage volunteers to support the Community Engagement and Racial Harmony service delivery.
• Marketing Outreach & Advocacy: work with this team to enhance visibility of the Community Engagement and Racial Harmony service across social media, press, and community events.
4. Governance Team Interaction: Provide regular updates and reports to the Governance, Secretariat & Performance Reporting team. Ensure programmealignment with Barawak policies, procedures, strategyand objectives. Collaborate on monitoring and evaluation efforts to assess Community Engagement and Racial Harmony service impact and effectiveness.
Person Specification:
• Skills: Strong organisational and leadership skills, excellent communication abilities, and adept at working in a collaborative environment. Eagar to learn new skills.
• Attributes: Deep understanding of the challenges faced by the Afro-Hebrew community in the UK. Commitment to Barawak's values of helping out, sticking together, and staying strong. Ability to work flexibly and respond to evolving community needs.
• Commitment: Passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families dealing with poverty. Innovative thinker with a focus on creating sustainable, long-term solutions.
Important: This advert is for a voluntary role, which is unpaid and not subject to reimbursement of expenses. Any agreement with the successful candidate is not intended to be a legally binding contract between us and may be cancelled at any time at the discretion of either party. By applying for the role, candidates agree that neither of us intend any employment relationship to be created either now or at any time in the future.
To relieve the poverty of persons and families of African and Caribbean decent.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Who are we?
Survivors Can Shine is a community interest company working to empower and protect children and young people by providing platforms to celebrate and amplify their voices. Bringing communities together to change perceptions around child abuse and create young Ambassadors for Change.
This year's Ambassadors for Change Community event will be held on Saturday May 25th in celebration of International Family Day. We are bringing together children, young people, local youth services and the wider community in collective strength in a positive movement for change.
'Ambassadors for Change are positive leaders and role models to their peers and an inspiration to the community'.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for enthusiastic volunteers for The Ambassadors for Change Community Event, supported by BBC Children in Need, taking place on the iconic Hampstead Heath on Saturday, May 25th. We’ll need volunteers to help make the day a success by helping manage the crowds, supporting the local community, answering any queries, and just generally representing Survivors Can Shine.
Why Volunteer with Survivors Can Shine?
By volunteering for us, you are part of a positive movement for change that is uplifting children and young people through the power of music. You’ll be part of an uplifting event to mark International Family Day, providing our young people with the opportunity to perform the creative pieces they've been working on and have their voices heard by public figures, the wider community & the Mayor of London who will also be in attendance to hand out the Ambassadors for Change Awards.
You will receive a free enhanced DBS check and Volunteer Safeguarding training that’ll be virtual for 2 hours.
There’s a variety of different tasks to get involved with and it’ll look great on your CV!
Skills needed:
- Enthusiasm and a willingness to get stuck in
- Interpersonal skills
- Punctuality and reliability
What roles do we need?
- Distribute event materials such as leaflets in your local area
- Stewards to help control crowds
- Welcoming & signposting attendees and providing information
- Act as a Charity ambassador by promoting the event among your friends, family and colleagues
- Security and first aid
- Set up and pack down of event
- Selling raffle tickets
Where and when?
The event takes places on Saturday May 25th from 1:30pm – 4:30pm, meaning that we need volunteers from 9am – 5:30pm (there are various slots throughout the day - you don't need to be available for the whole day!)
Hampstead Heath, Parliament Hills Fields, NW5 1QR
All volunteers will need to be over 18.
We will be in touch with you via email!
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the program
Our summer camp program is a comprehensive initiative that is designed to provide a safe and engaging environment for children between the ages of 4 to 16 during school breaks.Kasoa is a market community and most of the women and men work as hawkers, shop attenders, petty traders etc which makes them leave home very early in the morning leaving their children to roam about the neighborhood and street. This is a non residential camp for the children but residential for volunteers.
The program focuses on preventing child delinquency by offering various fun and educational activities that keep children occupied and engaged. Our camp offers a variety of activities such as outdoor games, sports, arts and crafts, music, drama, reading, storytelling, French, and other recreational activities that help children develop social skills, improve their self-confidence, and foster positive relationships with others.
During summer breaks, schools and various institutions organize vacations or summer schools. However, the high cost of attending these programs often makes it impossible for children from poor homes to participate. Consequently, these children end up roaming the streets and engaging in various social vices. The program takes place within the community where children from the slums, streets and poor backgrounds are brought together and taken through indoor and outdoor games and activities.
Our Summer camp is a call to action to provide an opportunity for children to be productive during the school break. The program starts from July through to end of August 2024 every year and volunteers can participate any date within the summer period. Volunteers are allowed to develop and introduce their own indoor and outdoor games. Volunteers who have special activities they want to introduce may want to bring the tools and items they may use since we may not have them. Volunteers are encouraged to come along with some crafts, paper, colors, pencils, paints, etc.
We are looking for volunteers dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children in their care. Our summer camp is the perfect place for children to learn, grow, and have fun during their school breaks whilst volunteers also learn the local culture, make new friends, touch lives, and make meaningful contributions to the lives.
What You Can Bring
Volunteers can bring materials like paints, pencils and pencil colors, crayons, drawing papers, toys, etc. Some of these materials can also be found in the local market for ready purchase. Most importantly you bring a big heart and smile.
What we expect from you
You must be passionate about children and ability to work with children from all kinds of backgrounds and with specific needs and attention.
What you can expect from us
Our staff is available to you 24/7 to give any necessary support. We will assign one staff to take care of your needs.
Who You will Work with
Volunteers work closely with our staff and other volunteers. Volunteers are paired with other volunteers if any to work on similar activities.
How Do I Get to the placement?
For the first day, volunteers will be taken to the center. Our staff will show volunteers how to get to the center, the direction to take, the particular vehicle if any, and the amount to pay for the transportation. This is repeated the next day if the volunteer thinks he still can't make it until the volunteer can make his/her way. The same is done for the return to the homestay from the placement center.
Is to establish a link between those seeking to give back and those in need of assistance through volunteering
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to local service providers and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a world without barriers.
What you’ll be doing:
• Giving talks to groups of people to raise awareness of sight loss in your local community by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local businesses, community and voluntary groups.
• Delivering talks to raise awareness of RNIB services as a trusted source of support for blind and partially sighted people
• Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service
What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.
In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A supportive route to building your confidence in presenting and sharing your story with an audience.
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.
Purpose
An Oxfordshire Youth Hospital Navigator Volunteer will provide support to Oxfordshire Youth staff and young people within our Hospital Navigator scheme. The post holder will passionately believe in the potential of all young people to achieve their goals.
An Oxfordshire Youth, Hospital Navigators Volunteer will be an advocate for young people.
Oxfordshire Youth Hospital Navigators Volunteers do not have fixed hours, but commit to flexible hours to suit their availability and staff needs. Shifts are available 7 days per week.
Join our dynamic team YPSA Team to coordinate the ground-breaking Intervention programme - Hospital Navigator. With an increase in the number of young people presenting at emergency departments due to serious violence, mental health issues, and substance abuse, we are addressing an urgent need for signposting young people to support services following discharge from A&E.
The Hospital Navigators will establish trust with young people who arrive at the JR hospital due to pre-existing concerns such as substance addiction, mental health issues, personal care, and violence itself. When in the hospital, there is an opportunity for the young person to reflect and be open to intervention. A volunteer in a dedicated Navigator role would request permission to refer the young person to a third-party agency that can provide the necessary specialist support. This moment may assist in redirecting the young person back into the community via a different pathway. The volunteer would connect them with a local support agency/charity that would assist them in reintegrating into the community, building resilience, and providing mentoring to prevent repeat occurrences that could lead to their hospitalisation.
The Navigator Coordinator will supervise Hospital Navigator volunteers. Once the navigator has gained the young person's trust and agreement, they will prepare an assessment and referral form that includes the type of difficulties, services available for referral, and the type of communication the client prefers.
Main volunteering duties
● Work within a busy A&E and the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) within JR hospital setting
● Liaise with the triage nurse team once people are medically cleared, to screen and offer signposting to appropriate services outside of the hospital
● Liaise with the A&E rapid response team to identify patients readmitted multiple times, and offer information to try to help reduce further re-admission
● Require administrative skills and be able to use IT, including finding out information from the internet on where and how to access services.
● Work within a team of people including doctors, nurses, and physiotherapists.
● Some important skills include good communication with people, and the ability to listen and build trust in a relatively short time frame.
This role profile is subject to amendment following discussion with the post holder and daily tasks will be determined by the needs of the young people and staff.
What you will gain
You will gain valuable experience and receive high-quality training to ensure you feel confident and motivated to support different aspects of Youth work. You will learn about teamwork, building and maintaining groups and recognising group dynamics.
Available training includes Safeguarding Levels 1 and 2 and GDPR. In addition, it will be possible to have further discussions about available opportunities for a Diploma in Youth Work Practice. Please note that some of this training is mandatory and you will only be able to volunteer if you complete this training.
All volunteers must undergo a DBS check.
Equipment will be provided.
Support for You
● Training and development opportunities in safeguarding level 2, self-harm and trauma-informed training, Mental Capacity Act, GDPR, Motivational interviewing and suicide prevention.
● Networking and social opportunities to meet sector partners and staff members.
● Ongoing day-to-day support and guidance from your team.
● Regular one-to-ones with a member of OY staff appointed to support you during your time with us.
Skills Required
We welcome volunteers over 18 years old and from all backgrounds and levels of the community. No previous experience is required, just an enthusiasm for getting involved.
However, we are looking for volunteers to demonstrate the following key skills and abilities:
● Good administration skills
● good communication and interpersonal skills
● impartiality, fairness and the ability to respect confidentiality
● an ability to ensure decisions are taken and followed up
● good time-keeping
● using your discretion and sensitivity for others
● a commitment to the organisation and the role
Applications will be reviewed as and when they are received.
To apply, please send a copy of your CV accompanied by an application form to or recruitment team, alternatively, visit our website for more information.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview to meet the team and find out more about the programme.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Welfare volunteers with experience in social work required to help asylum seekers access basic rights and support
WOMEN only need apply as we work with women who have escaped violence and trafficking by men.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About CARAS:
CARAS is a leading refugee charity in Southwest London, providing firm foundations for new-arrival asylum seekers to build happy and successful lives. Arriving as an asylum seeker in the UK can be a terrifying and disempowering experience. Difficulties with language, accessing services and overcoming prejudice are ever-present. We exist to help people seeking asylum overcome those challenges, and to help them rebuild their lives.
We provide person-centred educational, social and casework support to over 600 young people and adults across South London each year, recognising the moment of arrival as one of opportunity. Our work provides individuals with essential support to build language and employability skills, develop social networks and friendships, and access essential services such as legal and mental health services. Our work has multi-generational impact, providing forced migrants with early interventions to support language and skill acquisition, tackling the root causes of socio-economic marginalisation by supporting social inclusion and future labour market access.
Volunteering with CARAS – our Community of Welcome:
CARAS has a proud history of volunteers helping us deliver our charitable aims. Volunteers are an essential part of the CARAS community, bringing skills, insights, experience, different languages, and enthusiasm to the roles. Community members tell us the welcome by volunteers is so important in an often hostile world. It helps them feel safe and wanted. Community is at the heart of all we do, and we could not deliver the projects we do without the enormous contribution that volunteers bring.
About CARAS Adult Programme:
Alongside educational and casework support, CARAS has a thriving social program of weekly activities, from women’s yoga, to creative coffee afternoons, sports sessions and workshops, designed and built in collaboration with our community, volunteers and local partners. Most people we work with in the adult team are waiting for a decision on their asylum claim, are accommodated in cramped and inadequate hotels contracted by the Home Office for up to – and sometimes more than – 2 years whilst they wait for a decision on their asylum claim. During this time, they are eligible for only £8.86 per week and are prohibited from working. This is an incredibly stressful and disempowering period for those seeking asylum. Against this backdrop, our social activities exist as spaces of welcome, for people to come and make meaningful connections, build confidence and importantly – have fun!
About the Trips and Holiday Activities Project:
Alongside our weekly timetable of term time activities, we run trips across London during the school holidays. These are always chosen and planned together with our community members, and so far have included trips to famous parks, museums, galleries, and the theatre. We know from our community members how important these trips are; they are a chance to explore parts of the city that would otherwise be inaccessible, and to feel more at home in the city. As one community member told us, ‘to discover new places…this makes us feel included’. They are an opportunity to learn something new with others, to meet new people, relax and have fun.
About the Role:
To support us with these trips and holiday activities, we are looking for friendly, welcoming, enthusiastic and proactive volunteers. You will support us practically to ensure the trips run smoothly and on time, but also will be an essential part of our community of welcome – to chat and get to know our community members, and make sure everyone feels included and is having a good time.
We intend to hold 2 trips in the Easter holidays, and up to 5 trips in the summer holidays. These will all be in locations across London, most likely during daytime hours. We will also run a combination of adult-only and child-friendly trips across the year – this is what our community have told us they want! We usually have a group of 10-20 community members and will always have at least one CARAS staff member present too.
Ideally, we are looking for volunteers who are flexible during school holidays and can attend at least 3 trips throughout the year, though we may consider those who might only be able to volunteer on a one-off basis.
Tasks and Responsibilities:
To attend CARAS trips as and when you are available to do so.
To support with the logistics of travelling to and from the trip location.
To keep an eye on the general health and wellbeing of our Community Members and report any concerns to the CARAS staff member present.
To encourage positive connections between people and the places we are visiting, opening up conversations to learn about each other.
On family-friendly trips, to assist where needed with the supervision of children present (alongside parents)
Requirements – Essential:
To be 18 years or older;
To be non-judgemental and able to engage with people from diverse cultural backgrounds;
To be reliable and punctual;
To be welcoming, friendly part of the group, and to make sure our community members have the best and most fruitful time possible at the locations we visit.
Excellent communication skills, especially with people with varying levels of English;
Current resident of the UK;
Able to provide five years’ worth of addresses, and willing to undergo a DBS check;
Able to complete compulsory volunteer induction training (online) general and safeguarding via 2 self-paced induction training webinars prior to the start of role;
Requirements – Desirable:
Knowledge of community languages, such as Farsi, Arabic, Tigrinya, Amharic, Somali and Spanish.
Through volunteering with us you will gain:
An opportunity to connect with and learn from a vibrant and diverse community of people who are new to the city;
A chance to share your knowledge of the city and places of interest with our community;
A deeper understanding of the experiences, challenges, and strengths of those seeking asylum here;
A deeper understanding of language-inclusive practices in multi-lingual groups;
Develop your skills and competencies;
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
***This is an unpaid voluntary role***
Our data entry and admin volunteers keep all the Abbey cogs turning, keeping our various databases and systems up to date which is vital for our monitoring, fundraising and project management. Gain valuable office experience while making a difference to a local community organisation. Help us once a week for up to 2 hours max between 11am and 1pm (minimum 2 month commitment) and we'll shower you with gratitude, cuppas and biscuits!
Qualities you need for this role
- This role is suited to you if you enjoy working with data, are meticulous with a good eye for detail
- Basic IT skills and ability to learn new software
- Reliability and punctuality
When you'll be needed
Two hours a week for a minimum of six months.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to local service providers and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a world without barriers.
What you’ll be doing:
• Giving talks to groups of people to raise awareness of sight loss in your local community by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local businesses, community and voluntary groups.
• Delivering talks to raise awareness of RNIB services as a trusted source of support for blind and partially sighted people
• Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service
What you’ll gain from the role:
• An opportunity to give something back.
• A chance to build a strong community.
• A sense of achievement through the difference you make.
• A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people
• An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies.
In return for donating your time we will provide:
• A supportive route to building your confidence in presenting and sharing your story with an audience.
• A rewarding experience.
• A great Induction and training.
• A supportive manager.
• Regular updates and catchups.
• Expenses.
• An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Are you someone who likes to raise awareness about a worthy cause? Can you always get people onboard with your good ideas and enthusiasm? If so, we’d love to hear from you! You don’t need an Armed Forces background, just a desire to support the serving community.
What is a Serving Community Team Engagement and Events Coordinator?
There is a SSAFA presence throughout the serving community, both in the UK and overseas. In many areas SSAFA have Serving Community Teams that offer financial, practical, and emotional support to serving personnel and their families. Each team is formed of a group of dedicated volunteers who make this possible.
Engagement and Events Coordinators are essential members of the Serving Community Team. They lead the development and delivery of an effective local publicity plan to raise awareness of SSAFA to potential beneficiaries, volunteers and funders in the serving community.
This role also has voting rights for the grant giving process.
What difference will you make?
Volunteers are the lifeblood of SSAFA. We have been involving volunteers in supporting the Armed Forces community for more than 130 years. Our beneficiaries come from all backgrounds and age groups and the number of people contacting us for help rises each year.
In order to keep providing help to those who need it most, we need Engagement and Events Coordinators who can raise awareness of SSAFA, and encourage people to seek or offer support.
What will you be doing?
Although every SSAFA Serving Community Team has different needs, below are the main activities of an Engagement and Events Coordinator:
- Planning and events: With the Serving Community Team, develop a publicity and events plan to raise SSAFA’s profile in the community.
- Engaging: Engage with the local community to publicise the Team’s work, events and fundraising initiatives where SSAFA is represented.
- Marketing: Identify and develop case studies and good news stories with support from Marketing and PR colleagues at SSAFA Central Office and liaise with them about any PR or press opportunities.
- Networking: Be the point of contact locally for engagement and events and develop and maintain networks with local stakeholders and media outlets, providing press releases, interviews and case studies.
- Coordinating and teamwork: Oversee and support the activities of Community Engagement Volunteers and the Digital Marketing Co-ordinator.
- Branding and publicity: With support from Marketing colleagues at Central Office maintain a stock of SSAFA branded publicity resources and copy to distribute locally.
What about training and support?
- Online, e-learning, training modules to complete at home, so you are up to date on how to keep people and their personal information safe.
- Local induction and support.
- Access to a range of e-learning courses, resources and local opportunities to keep your knowledge and skills up to date.
- Ongoing support from SSAFA’s volunteering and operations colleagues based regionally and at our central office.
- Regular meetings and events to learn and share information.
- Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses.
- Volunteers will be covered by SSAFA's Public Liability insurance while carrying out their role.
What can you gain from this volunteering role?
- Use your skills, knowledge and life experience to benefit others.
- Give back to the Armed Forces community.
- Become part of the SSAFA community and build networks across the serving community and local area.
- Experience, training, and skills that you can highlight on your CV and in job interviews.
- Better physical and mental health – studies show that volunteers live longer and experience lower levels of stress and depression!
What are we looking for?
- Friendly and approachable people with good written and verbal communication skills.
- Empathy regarding the needs and challenges related to serving community.
- Good IT skills e.g. ability to use Outlook and Excel – you will receive your own SSAFA email address.
- Be an effective listener, respectful and have a non-judgemental approach.
- A willingness to adhere to all relevant organisational policies and procedures.
Depending on the needs of the team, this role would suit someone who would like to volunteer a few hours each week.
We welcome volunteers of all backgrounds, abilities, races, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, and of all faiths and none. SSAFA are committed to making reasonable adjustments to support volunteers with disabilities, so they have access to the same opportunities and experiences as volunteers who do not.
Please note this is a volunteer role and does not form part of any contract of employment.
Minimum Age: 18
Are references required? Yes. Two-character references from people who know you well (not family members).
Is a criminal record check required? No
We work to make SSAFA as safe as possible for everyone. Part of this involves volunteers attending an informal interview, providing two suitable references, and completing relevant training for your role.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
About the Role
We are looking for a Volunteer to assist in the running of the daily programme of activities at Headway East London. The Day Service is a new opportunity for people living with brain injury in the East London area to join our community.
Volunteering with us, you’ll get involved in the fun and creative activities going on at our Day Service. Every week is different: you could help in our art studio, assist in the kitchen or take part in a music session. You’ll be supporting our members one-to-one and in groups. You don’t need any special skills or knowledge, we’ll give you the induction you need, and support is always on hand, with regular volunteer meetings, training sessions and supervision.
Main Duties
- To help Headway staff manage the activity programme for each member by offering one-to-one support or in small groups.
- To assist members with specific activities that prove challenging for them i.e., using computers, cooking, engaging in art activities.
- To initiate discussion, games or activities and encourage members to take part.
- To help floor staff around lunch time (food preps. setting up tables, dishing out and serving food).
- To assist with keeping the Headway centre safe, clean, and tidy all times by taking on tasks such as collecting and washing cups, tidying up resources' shelves, wiping tables before lunch etc…
- To inform floor staff about activities undertaken with members and any significant changes in mood or behaviour. To take members to social events and outings and being able to assist individuals needing to use a wheelchair.
- To undergo training as required and attend volunteer debriefs and supervision. To undertake any other duties that may reasonably be required.
Person Specification
- Aged 18 or over.
- Experience working with people clear and sensitive communication.
- Ability to relate well to people on a one-to-one basis and be sympathetic to others’ situations.
- Willing to participate in a variety of activities appropriate for our members.
- Prepared to lead an activity with a small group of members.
- Committed to the values, vision, and objectives of Headway East London.
- Committed to equal opportunity and able to maintain confidentiality.
Commitment
The role requires a minimum commitment of at least 4 months,anyday from Monday to Friday between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Volunteers need to sign a volunteer agreement and confidentiality form.
Training/Support
Each volunteer is given an induction which includes information on health & safety, fire precautions, confidentiality, equal opportunities, and a brief outline of the long-term effects of head injury.
As part of this role, you will receive ongoing support and you will have the opportunity to gain experience in Health and Social Care.
- To fully support our volunteers in their role we provide: regular volunteer meetings.
- Training sessions delivered by our specialist staff a regular debrief session.
- One to one supervision starting after the first 4 months and yearly appraisal meetings.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Do you want to gain experience in the charity sector? Would you like to help community groups to find suitable funders and robust evidence to support their funding applications? Do you enjoy doing research and working with data?
As a Community Southwark Research and Data Volunteer, you will find and read through research which could be useful for charities and groups and summarise the key data. You’ll also play a key role making sure that opportunities on our funding database are up-to-date and accurate.
What will you do?
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Research useful reports and data which could be useful for Southwark community groups
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Read through reports and articles to pick out key statistics
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Use our data library (on AirTable) to record information about useful data sources
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Reviewing entries in our funding database (also on AirTable) to check they are correct
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Uploading new funding opportunities to our funding database
Person specification:
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Confident with or happy to learn to use Microsoft Outlook for emails and our internal databases, hosted on Airtable
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Able to conduct research using search engines on the internet
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Able to read through written reports and articles in English and summarise key information
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Good attention to detail when working with numbers, facts and spreadsheets
What you will gain: Increased confidence in working with data, research and databases. An understanding of the community and charity sector in Southwark. Administrative and IT skills.
We are committed to the ongoing development of our volunteers with skills development, 1-2-1 support, a reference after 3 months and further opportunities to get involved in our work.
Expenses: Community Southwark reimburses travel expenses up to £6 per week and lunch expenses up to £5 when volunteering 4 or more hours in person.
Times and location: This role can be carried out from our office in Bermondsey or from home, and can be a one or two day per week role – flexible to your availability.
The client requests no contact from agencies or media sales.
Actively Interviewing
This organisation is scheduling interviews as the applications come in. Don’t miss your opportunity, apply now!
Join our amazing volunteer team to raise awareness of sight loss and RNIB services at local events. You will give talks in person or virtually, sharing your own story to improve understanding of sight loss to local service providers and community groups. You’ll be making a real difference to people living with sight loss by helping to improve accessibility and inclusivity, creating a world without barriers. What you’ll be doing: • Giving talks to groups of people to raise awareness of sight loss in your local community by sharing your story to audiences, for example, local businesses, community and voluntary groups. • Delivering talks to raise awareness of RNIB services as a trusted source of support for blind and partially sighted people • Representing RNIB as an Ambassador for the Community Connection service What you’ll gain from the role: • An opportunity to give something back. • A chance to build a strong community. • A sense of achievement through the difference you make. • A chance to be part of a team of like-minded people • An opportunity to develop and explore different roles with RNIB, including our internal job vacancies. In return for donating your time we will provide: • A supportive route to building your confidence in presenting and sharing your story with an audience. • A rewarding experience. • A great Induction and training. • A supportive manager. • Regular updates and catchups. • Expenses. • An opportunity to connect with other volunteers.